Minnesota freight program, Ohio projects target crossing upgrades

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is accepting funding applications for projects that benefit freight movements in the state. Up to $56 million is expected to be available for fiscal years 2023-2025 through the Minnesota Highway Freight Program.

Railroads, ports, airports, waterways, and Minnesota cities and counties can apply for funding by Sept. 28.

Proceeds can be used to help fund a railroad crossing improvement, intermodal facility or road project if it provides a public freight benefit, MnDOT officials said in a press release.

Funded through the National Highway Freight Program, the Minnesota program is designed to help meet the state’s freight transportation needs.

Meanwhile, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio last week approved construction authorization from the Ohio Rail Development Commission directing the Ohio Southern Railroad (OSR) and Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Co. (WLE) to upgrade crossings in two counties.

OSR will upgrade warning devices for traffic preemption at the U.S. 22/Marysville Road grade crossing in Muskingum County, and WLE will install flashing lights and gates at the Ft. Laurens Road/County Road 102 crossing in Tuscarawas County.

Federal funding will cover costs for the projects, which must be completed by April 1, 2021.